University of Minnesota Program to Bring New Fruit Varieties to Direct-market Growers

The University of Minnesota has launched a new grower-focused licensing model designed to broaden the audience for its new fruit varieties. Superior Fruit Innovations™ (SFI) opens up the university’s exclusive fruit varieties to direct-market growers who sell straight to consumers and local communities rather than through large distributors. This new program serves growers of all sizes and provides local food systems with access to premium apple and table grape varieties developed by the university. “The program is designed to help direct-market growers stand out with fruits that deliver the superior qualities that build customer loyalty,” says Horticultural Science professor Matt Clark. “Growers can use SFI varieties to diversify their offerings, attract more visitors, and potentially command a premium price. Not only that, some of these varieties are ideal for local markets which reduces the challenges of storing or shipping fruit long distances.” Interested growers need to join the SFI network to participate.